ISLAMABAD, Aug 12: The venue for the Independence Day flag hoisting ceremony has again been switched to the Jinnah Convention Center due to security reasons, sources told Dawn here on Tuesday.

The move came a couple of days after a government decision to hold the official ceremony on the lawns of the parliament building after a gap of six years.

The sources said the authorities were advised not to hold the function in the open as there were threats of terrorist attacks in the capital city.

The government was also informed that it would have been difficult to ensure foolproof security in and around the parliament lawns, which could be approached easily.

A senior official said: “We are not in position to take any chances and the step has been taken for the security of VVIPs and senior government officials.”

According to him, intelligence reports suggested that terrorists might strike in the city on the occasion.

However, these were now “direct threats”, he said.On the other hand, Deputy Commissioner Islamabad Amir Ali Ahmed told Dawn that the venue was changed from the parliament building to the Convention Centre due to rain forecast.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department, however, said the chances of rain on August 14 were limited.

A rehearsal of the flag hoisting ceremony was held at the Convention Centre on Tuesday due to intermittent showers, Mr Ali said, adding that another drill would be carried out on Wednesday.

According to him, a heavy contingent of security personnel would be deployed in and around the Convention Centre for the high-profile event.

All roads leading towards the venue will be put under high surveillance, he said, adding that aerial cover would also be provided using choppers.

Services of Punjab Rangers will also be sought for the security arrangements and the paramilitary force will be deployed at different points, including the Margalla Hills.

The official said the law enforcers had started checking hotels, inns, motels, and bus terminals.

Police pickets in and around the city have been activated where the law enforcers are conducting random search. Patrolling around shopping centres and public places has also been intensified. The personnel deployed at the entry and exit points have been directed to remain extra vigilant and especially monitor vehicles and people coming from the NWFP.

Besides, the law enforcer have also been directed to ensure their own safety and advised against standing in large groups.